12/07/20

Home Design

Crank Up the Cozy this Holiday Season with these 7 Tips

The holiday season is here, and who doesn’t love the idea of curling up with an oversized sweater, fury blanket, and a cup of hot chocolate (or red wine) by a sparkling tree.  If you are like me and have expanded your collection of extra comfy clothes this year, put on some cozies and follow these few tips to give your home a toasty, relaxed makeover this holiday season.

Soften overhead lighting

Repeat after me, “lighting is key.” A well-lit home is excellent, but not necessarily when you are trying to get cozy.  Adding or layering your light sources can alter your home’s mood and make it feel warm and inviting.  The goal is the ability to control or soften your lighting.  If you have any overhead lights, consider investing in dimmer switches or swap to a bulb with a warmer glow.  Alternatively, you could scrap the overhead lighting and switch to a soft tableside lamp or floor lamp.

Light those candles

It’s incredible what a candle can do to set the mood for comfort and relaxation instantly.  I’m a fan of candles at all times of the year but definitely around the holidays.  Try something with a fun holiday scent like evergreen or cranberry or something more neutral like lavender or vanilla.  Even something unscented will create a cozy ambiance for your home.

All the blankets and pillows

How can you get cozy without blankets and pillows?  Add in some big chunky blankets, soft throws, and incorporate additional pillows to your decorating scheme to give your home an inviting feel.  Something knit, fur, texture (or all of the above) will do the trick and add extra throws that make you want to curl up on the couch. You will be itching to snuggle up at the end of the day with the right tools are in place.

Clean & declutter

Wait, what does this have to do with getting cozy? Are you familiar with the phrase “a tidy house equals a tidy mind”? There is a lot of truth that having a cluttered and unkempt home can up your stress level.  I know that I have a hard time relaxing when I have dishes piled up in my sink, clutter on my counter, and my kid’s toys are sprawled all over my living room.  Make it a habit to clean and declutter your house home even a little bit each day. Invest in bins to store things you don’t use frequently.  Or better yet, donate them! You will be surprised at how much more relaxed and comfortable you will feel.

Play music

“Alexa…play holiday jazz.”  At least, that is what my “go-to” these days.  Music is transformational and can modify your home instantly.  With music, you can alter your space’s mood to feel energized, relaxed, or anywhere in between. I will consistently have music playing in the background regardless of whether I’m cleaning, playing with my kids, or relaxing on the couch.

Light the fireplace (if you have one)

There is something so calming about the cozy warmth of a fireplace.  A fireplace can enhance the feel of a room and create both a comfortable and romantic atmosphere.  Many studies show that looking at a fire and listening to the crackling sound of a fireplace can reduce your blood pressure and help you relax.  If you don’t have a fireplace, consider a candle that mimics a fireplace’s crackling sound or stream one on your tv!

Add soft area rugs

Hardwood floors are beautiful, but they can be cold under your feet during the winter months. If you have solid surface floors, consider adding an appropriately sized rug to tie in the space and add warmth. 

Want to find a home that you can make cozy this winter? Give us a call, and we can get your search underway!